Faults:

The GPS navigation computer failed around 2004 and the dealer stated Acura no longer supports the earlier model of GPS navigation device.

The hinged, leather covered console cover between the front seats rubs against the driver's lumbar adjustment creating a constant squeaking noise.

A black film trim around the car deforms and peels away.

The Check Engine or Maintenance Required light is activated with regularity as can be due a loose gas cap.

The oxygen sensor has been replaced multiple times.

There is no run-off channel between the door and roof so that if the window is opened while driving any water on the roof will run into the car.

General Comments:

Seat and seating position are comfortable. All ergonomics are well located.

The 3.2 liter engine is very responsive and fuel mileage is in the 23 - 26 mpg range.

The automatic transmission is generally satisfactory. However, downshifts can be harsh and jerky. The manual mode is really unnecessary on the TL as the responsiveness of the transmission is not good enough to take full advantage of manual shifting.

The leather seats have held up well.

A recent service indicated worn motor mounts and ball joints with costs in the neighborhood of $2000 to fix (as of 1-Apr-08). While inexpensive to operate, the cost for relative minor repairs can be quite high.

Faults:

6 Transmissions, we opted for the 6yr/100k mile warranty when we first purchased the vehicle, so they were all paid for except the last (each time the transmission was changed, it carried a 30k mile warranty). This car also has inexcusable amount of road noise, it is the noisiest sedan I've owned. The sound system does not play recorded/burned CD's. With the exception of the transmission, the car has been reliable. Transmissions, however, are a very important and costly part.

General Comments:

We got this car in the Fall of 1998 as a 1999 model year. We had previously owned a 1991 Acura Legend LS which was fantastic, it went to 215k miles with few problems. We figured the TL would do the same. The TL came loaded, and best of all, it was no-extra cost options. The car does not handle as well as a BMW or Audi, but it was OK. The car also does not have the best braking, it will slide on wet roads, even with newer tires. The TCS (trac) system is only slightly useful. The NAV system (which Acura upgraded to DVD-format for 2000) was a hard disc and was extremely slow at times and failed to work at other times (dealer wanted $4000 to replace), mind it is a $2000 option. We have relatives who have a 2000 TL, they have had one transmission replaced at 55k miles, another relative who has a 2001 CL coupe that also had a transmission replaced under 100k miles. But we had half a dozen, some cannot believe, but it is true. We fixed the last transmission and automatically sold it, never will we buy an Acura. Lexus or BMW offer significantly better reliability.